Community solar has experienced enormous growth across the country over the past few years. From 2016 to 2019, the total capacity leapt from roughly 300 to 1400 megawatts (MW), more than quadrupling the supply. By 2020, community solar could reach between a third and a half of the total distributed PV market, according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Most of that capacity and growth is in rural areas, but increasingly, urban rooftops offer an opportunity for solar development and could be the key to its diversification.
New York is a leader in the growth and development of the community solar market thanks to the NY-Sun Initiative, which gave the sector a $1bn boost. Enough community solar to supply an additional 120,000 homes is slated for development in the State. Governor Cuomo also recently increased the size cap on community solar projects from 2 to 5 MW, increasing the number of available household subscriptions from roughly 360 to 900, so individual projects can expand their reach.
With all of this new solar power available, policy leaders are concerned that not all income groups benefit from it equally…
A community solar program is when multiple parties share the same power and financial benefits of a solar energy project. Learn all about community solar, how it works, its benefits, and the signup process.
Read MoreNew York State introduced community solar energy policies in 2021 that are designed to support the adoption of solar by underserved and disadvantaged communities. How can you take advantage?
Read MoreThe Town of Independence in Allegany County has signed up to receive 10% in annual electricity savings through community solar in addition to the tax revenue it receives from hosting three community solar projects.
Read MoreBrief remarks by the County Executive of Rensselaer County and OYA Solar to celebrate the official participation of Rensselaer County in community solar at the Rensselaer County buildings’ rooftop terrace.
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